“Sunday’s game was there for everyone to see,” shrugged the Coach at the start of his Press conference.

“I have already apologised for that, but I think people should be judged by their actions, not words. We can only make up for the Derby with performances.

“Fortunately we are able to get right back on the pitch straight away. We cannot cancel what happened if not by behaving in a completely different way.

“I think the judgment of the side was exaggerated. We are not phenomenons, but neither are we the team seen in the Derby. I am certain of that.

“I spoke to the President after the game and again by telephone. I expressed my ideas and have no problem with him. I am only an employee and have to try to do the best I can with what I have at my disposal.”

Rossi insisted the gloom that has fallen over the Blucerchiati side of the city is only to be expected.

“We deserved to lose a game that we did not play the way Sampdoria should. We know the Derby gives and it takes away. If you win, you run on enthusiasm, while if you lose then the world looks black. However, I won’t act like we’re victims or have absolutely everything wrong.

“I know that I’m the ultimate scapegoat, as being a Coach brings both honour and a great deal of responsibility. If things don’t go well, it’s only normal that we see more of the responsibility.”

Eder is out injured, so GianlucaSansone is expected to partner ManoloGabbiadini.

Cagliari’sStadioSant’Elia is not ready yet, so the game will be played at the StadioNereo Rocco in Trieste.

“It doesn’t matter where we play, whether there are fans or not – there are no alibis. We are in a situation where we have to get back on our feet, and quickly.”